Mindanao Daily (May 6-7, 2020)

MINDANAO DAILY TRUTH. JUSTICE. PROGRESS.

Volume IX, No. 275

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Wed-Thu, May 6-7, 2020

P15.00

DILG-10: LGUs may face charges on SAP distribution irregularities DSWD to LGUs: Screen SAP beneficiaries carefully

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Barangay or local officials with irregularities on Social Amelioration Package (SAP) distribution may face administrative and/or criminal charges per Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-10.

“Kung naa kita’y mga barangay officials, local officials nga atong mahibawan nga tinuod ang reklamo nga ang ilang gipangpili nga mga beneficiaries are not qualified to receive the said SAP nga assistance, they will

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rolando Bautista says local or barangay officials who did not screen their Social Amelioration Program (SAP) beneficiaires thoroughly will be held liable during the daily Network Briefing with Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, May 6.

“Sabihin nating nakapagbigay ng doble [ang LGU] sa isang target na beneficiary; ay mapipilitan talaga siya na kunin talaga iyon. May liability ang barangay official dahil hindi niya sinala at ini-screen nang mabuti ang profile ng beneficiary,” Bautista said.

(Let’s say the LGU has Uniformed police personnel tried to control the crowds who are in queue for an hours to doubled the cash assistance get their share of the government’s funding called Social Amelioration Program (SAP) See SCREEN, page 11

See FLED, page 11

never mind the law on Social Distancing that they clearly violate. photo by gerry lee gorit

Popcom-10 official reminds couples vs ‘unplanned pregnancy’ during Covid-19

By GERRY LEE GORIT Correspondent

Population Commission (Popcom) Regional Director Jeremias Gupit of Northern Mindanao presides over the meeting with some population officials from the province of Misamis Oriental held at the Popcom-10 office in Barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City. photo by gerry lee gorit

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY-The Population Commission (Popcom) in Region 10 urged couple to be more wary about “unplanned pregnancy” in this this time of health crisis brought

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about by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Popcom-10 Regional Director Jeremias Gupit said his agency has stepped up its campaign against “unplanned pregnancy” in the region among couple especially in this time where

the couple is locked in due to Covid-19.

Mr. Gupit said his agency is expecting a spike in pregnancy among women especially during the start of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECG) in March and April.

He said the Popcom is now conducting re-orientation seminar for its barangay population volunteers. he said barangay population volunteers are now helping Popcom supply contrceptives--and even See REMINDS, page 11

RADYO SERBISYO 106.3 FM CDO

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Family Planning in the time of COVID-19

Gov Bambi: We can defeat this, it’s only a virus we are human POSITIBO ang panglantaw sa amahan sa lalawigan nga bisan paman sa mga pagsulay ug labihan ka dakong hagit nga hatod sa Corona Virus Disease (Covid-19) anaa gihapon ang iyang panglantaw nga mapukan kini nga virus sa umaabot tungod kay mas mopatigbabaw ang kaalam ug kahibalo sa katawhan.

Matud niini nga iyang nahuna-hunaan karong panahona nga halos moabot na og pila ka bulan ang pakigbatok sa gobyerno niinining makamatay nga virus nga unta kung wala kini ubayubay na ang natunol nga proyekto.

“Where are we now?

Over the weekend I’d like to think where we are? where we’ve been since the declaration of the state of calamity the challenges of sustaining the funds, where the municipalities and the 424 barangays what we are doing right now?” matud ni Gov. Bambi atubangan sa iyang mga mga empleyado dihang ika unom na ka semana nga gipaagi na lamang via zoom o online conferencing ang flag raising ceremony sa sa kapitolyo probinsyal.

Toud man gikasubo niini nga daghan ang mga proyekto ang wala naturn-over ug apil sa naoktaba ang mga dagkong kalihokan apan wala kini

Community

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gisapayan ni Governor Bambi hinoun bout kini niyang mapangitaan og paagi.

“With covid, there are uncertainties and the road is little hazy and some are not not even cleared anymore on how to move forward,” matud niini.

Apan bout niining ipaabot nga ang kapitolyo probinsyal taliwala paman niining sitwasyon karon iyang ipadangat sa katawhan nga dili mohunong sa pagpangita og pamaagi aron mahatag ang batakang serbisyo alang sa katawhan sa lalawigan.

Gumikan niini iyang gimandoan ang iyang mga ulo sa departamento o ang Misamis Oriental Department Heads Association (Modha) nga mohimo og mga inobasyon ug mga lakang nga mugna diha ipaagi sa social media o uban pang platform sa internet nga makatabang sa katawhan sa lalawigan.

“This is something new that we have to be able to move forward, it’s only a virus, I look at and see the social network all the time it’s only a virus, we’re humans I know we can defeat this but even if we will be able to defeat this there is always be a new normal and those innovative ways of Modha I need for the new normal,” matud ni Gov Bambi.

WITH strictest observance of hygiene protocols including social distancing, as POPCOM X’s RPFP Team with resolve faced the challenges posed by COVID-19, as of April 30, 2020, a total of forty-four (44) women were inserted with Progestin-only Subdermal Implants (PSI), eight (8) were provided with Intrauterine Device (IUD), four (4) were injected with Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), and one (1) pill dispensed or a total of fifty-six (56) women were all duly serviced with the Family Planning Contraceptive of their choice – all in the time of COVID-19.

Few members of the team reached out to women in the hinterland barangays of Cagayan de Oro City, in partnership with the Barangay Health Stations, to cater the FP needs of

women in barangays as far as Tagpangi and Pigsag-an, while another member of the team is left at the Regional Office X FP and Wellness Clinic to cater to clients referred by Barangay Population Volunteers (BPVs).

As frontliners during the implementation of General Community Quarantine, ensuring the ready availability of Family Planning services to the extent of reaching out its clientele even to far-flung barangay is POPCOM X’s share in the overall effort for the health and wellbeing of the women in Northern Mindanao.

It is learned that of all the POPCOM regional offices in the country, it is only POPCOM Region X which has been providing direct family planning services even in the time of COVID-19.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The National Food Authority (NFA)-10 increased its usual 5-10 percent market

participation to 12.4 percent to respond to coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 contagion.

NFA-10 increases market participation to 12% As an agency mandated to maintain rice buffer stock to be sourced solely from local farmers for calamities

NFA-10 Regional Director John Robert R. Hermano reports the status of NFA rice buffer stocks in the region which will last up to two more months during the Logistics Task Group-Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force for COVID-19 tele-conference, May 1. (NFA 10)

JOY& THATA LECHON LIVESTOCK TRADING

and emergencies, NFA-10 Regional Director John Robert R. Hermano reported the status of NFA rice buffer stocks in the region which will last up to two more months during the Logistics Task Group-Northern Mindanao Regional Task Force for COVID-19 teleconference, May 1.

He also reported that from March to April 29 this year, the region has already released 97,453 bags in 50 kilograms NFA rice to various government relief agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and its local units, local government units (LGUs), and some legislators for their COVID-related relief operations.

Milling activities of the palay procured last cropping season also continues to increase the level of rice inventory.

Hermano likewise assured the sufficient rice supply of NFA in the region despite the continuous withdrawals of these agencies as NFA’s inventory will be replenished by the ongoing palay procurement. (NFA10/ PIA10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947 CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491 CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631

Located at : PUERTO, CDO – MAIN JR. BORJA EXTENSION, CRONEN, CAMAMAN-AN – BRANCH

LAPASAN BRANCH

Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Contact Number: Tel. # (088) 231-6739 0916-126-7815 CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd., Cagayan de Oro City 0920-876-3147 Tel. # (088) 231-2011

CDO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947

DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631

CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491

LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739

CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd.,Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

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PLDT sponsors high-level decontamination services to RITM and NKTI

COVID Hospitals receive decontamination services through PLDT and Makati Medical Center Foundation.

MANILA, Philippines – COVID-19 hospitals and their health workers have received a fresh dose of help in the form of decontamination services and packages of hygiene and food items from telecoms and digital services provider PLDT Inc. and the Makati Medical Center Foundation.

PLDT sponsored the provision of high-level decontamination services using Steramist Asia’s Binary Ionization Technology (BIT) for The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Muntinlupa City and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute in Quezon City.

BIT is a powerful disin-

Hospital maintenance staff and security personnel are provided with care packages from PLDT.

fectant that has been certified by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) as being effective in eliminating the novel coronavirus.

This is applied in parts of the hospitals in need of specialized sanitation such the laboratories, COVID wards, ambulances and even the reprocessing of N95 masks and personal protective equipment (PPEs).

Working with the Makati Medical Center Foundation, PLDT also turned over care packages containing hygiene and food items to the personnel of these hospitals including their sanitation team, maintenance staff and security officers.

See SERVICES, page 11

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Opinion

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Hospitality insights: The storm will pass

LET’s looks at how hospitality businesses can start to prepare for life in a post-pandemic economy.

The speed and magnitude with which COVID-19 has affected everyone is unprecedented. The hospitality industry in particular has seen its world turned upside-down. Mass cancellations of room bookings, events and conferences have made it a worrying time for the industry, with the majority having to close their doors to prevent fur-

ther spread of the virus.

While some have been able to diversify their offering to stay ‘open’ in some way, shape or form, others have effectively closed their doors commercially, instead extending their goodwill and kindness to support those in need.

Regardless of which route a hospitality business has taken, there’s a certain amount of ‘downtime’ involved. Time which could be used wisely to reassess processes to get the busi-

ness in optimum shape for when we can all open fully once again.

And while the talk is of getting back to ‘business as usual’ post-pandemic, it might be that business as usual simply isn’t good enough. Many organisations are now looking to re-evaluate operations so they are ready to hit the ground running when some sense of normality returns.

I have hope. Hope that a post COVID-19 world could bring with it some

JEROME DE LA FUENTE

positives, at least from an economic stance. As the rainbow eludes to, and once the storm has passed so will our supply chains become more localised, with both businesses and families continuing to turn to their nearby markets, favouring locally-sourced produce.

PUBLIC HEALTH LENS

Robust disease surveillance and ‘outbreak drill’ AS the Philippine government continues to expand it’s testing capacity and isolation facilities, building a national COVID-19 surveillance and outbreak preparedness system is critical for containing transmission of the virus now and preparing for potential waves of the infection in the future.

During a pandemic like COVID-19, one of the most important public health tools is a reliable system of quick data reporting of any signs of an outbreak from communities to the government so officials can rapidly identify and implement the appropriate interventions. World Health Organization defines public health surveillance as a continuous, systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of health-

related data needed for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health practice.

In the Philippine setup, implementing such a surveillance system will require collaboration among the Department of Health (DOH), local health authorities, and private facilities. On regional and local levels, every region of the country should aim for key outbreak surveillance and response capabilities: a test-and-trace infrastructure, rapid response in the form of isolation, aggressive contact tracing, and quarantine. This can be fully attained with clear and consistent guidelines and comprehensive support from the DOH and private sectors.

Test-and-Trace Infra-

structure must be in place Aggressive contact tracing and isolation are the foundation for minimizing the risk of new outbreaks while slowly easing community restrictions. This would entail having the capacity to conduct rapid, widespread testing for every individual with COVID-19 symptoms, the contacts, and clusters.

What is not emphasized in the current Philippine strategy is the identification of clusters (positive cases and their contacts). This could have been achieved if we had a mechanism to easily identify clusters through a digital tracking system (i.e. Taiwan, South Korea, China, Iceland) or dedicated teams that religiously identify and follow up cases and contacts (i.e.

Singapore, Vietnam, New

DURING a recently held webinar in which I had the opportunity to be one of the speakers the title itself already contained an excruciating question: “Are we in a recession?” This question was actually answered by our BSP chief, Benjamin Diokno, who, in an interview published by the Inquirer on April 26 2020 predicts a recession of the Philippine economy for 2020 with a U shaped recovery by end of the year and a full recovery in 2021. Diokno fortunately also noted that the peso remains steady despite the market turmoil, and has been the second strongest currency, after the Japanese yen, among 14 monitored Asian foreign currencies after the COVID-19 outbreak.

So where are we currently heading? Is this going to impact all sectors across the board? I tried to ask the difficult questions but apparently nobody really wanted to answer them.

Resilient silence.

What I could take away from the presentations of the other speakers like Alejandro Manalac, chairman of the National Real Estate Association, Romolo Nati, CEO of IDC and Joey Bondoc from Colliers International is that in real estate there are going to be some price adjustments in the high-end property segment and that despite the situation new opportunities may arise from struggling investors and from hardly hit economies like Spain and Italy.

So I guess it could be time to go property shopping abroad for some Filipinos!

Architect Nati believes that the Philippines will probably not be too much affected since the trend to migrate to the provinces and outskirts of Metro Cities is spreading the general growth to secondary cities and that the “work-from-home” agenda of many companies now will just accelerate this trend.

On the other hand retail and tourism properties like guest houses and hotels have been severely affected so far and will take a while to recover. He also added that he is confident that the economy will bounce back soon due to its underlying fundamentals and real estate, especially in the provinces will continue to grow even more where the location is right.

For the first time ever I heard the concept of the “new normal” from Joey Bondoc as he explained that commercial spaces will be more aware of social distancing and therefore restaurants will have a reduced seating capacity and stores will have to control the number of clients present in the store. Colliers in fact predicts the growth of the demand for warehousing space due to the increased home-delivery activities and properties linked to the e-commerce sector as well

Romulo F. Nieva Jr., RN, MHSS

Zealand). Along with these measures, an independent contact tracing audit must be done to evaluate the timeliness of identification and the extent of tracing.

This raises a red flag if certain cases fall through the tracing cracks.

To allow early identification of small outbreaks, a key element of the testand-trace infrastructure would be a robust regional surveillance system that would routinely monitor targeted populations, particularly those who have regular proximity to cases like frontline workers or those in crowded settings

“Are we in a recession?”

See DISEASE, page 11

as flexible workspace. In fact it is predicted that not only in Metro-Manila about 50% of the employees of companies will either work from home or in flexible workspaces. Decentralization will therefore play a big role from here on especially in consideration also of the Balik-Provincia program of the government and the increased efforts to facilitate transport to the outskirts of the capital city.

With his 30 years industry experience the last speaker was probably the most seasoned to weather economic downturns as he had already experienced two in the past. He advised real estate practitioners to tighten their belts and hang in there while reassuring their clients and stay connected to their industry peers. As for developers and agencies he recommended to keep the sales force and their best agents See RECESSION, page 11

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DA gains more partners for Plant, Plant, Plant program; priest encourages households to plant WITH the imposed community quarantine caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the agriculture department gains more partners in implementing its Plant, Plant, Plant, Plant program, as it seeks to scale up the production of food through expansion of areas.

Otherwise known as Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS) kontra COVID-19, the DA-Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) has also solicited support from the different households across the region, as most

are driven to stay in their homes, pursuing to become more productive through backyard gardening.

Fr. Gary D. Igot of St. John Marie Vianney Church of Xavier Heights Subdivision in Cagayan de Oro City, is no stranger in producing food at the comforts of his home. This was further intensified, being one of the recipients of the agency’s distribution of free vegetable seeds.

“Times are tough and I wanted to show and motivate my neighborhood to

spend their spare time in worthwhile activities such as gardening, making them more productive during this ongoing health crisis,” Fr. Igot remarked.

“His humble garden is a good model to bare the department’s Plant, Plant, Plant, Plant program. It only shows that anyone can grow their own food, thus ensuring food security at the household level,” DA-10 Regional Technical Director Carlota S. Madriaga said, who has visited in the priest’s garden.

Since the COVID-19 crisis broke out, the region, as of April 30, has distributed a total of about 483 kilograms of assorted vegetable seeds to the local governments through its agriculture offices and walk-in clients through the DA-10’s ALPAS COVID-19 center for distribution.

“In a few days, I will have fresh eggplants and bell pepper to harvest from my garden, of which I can share to my neighbors,” Fr. Igot concluded. # # # (DARFO X, RAFIS)

See EARN, page 9

SHOWCASING public service at its best, the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga’s Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita on Wheels Program benefits both the consuming public and the farmers, fishers, and other Agri product suppliers.

Through the Kadiwa mobile market, the consumers are given an opportunity to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and other fishery products, fresh and frozen meat and poultry products, as well as some dry goods, right at the premises of their barangay On the other hand, farmers, fishers, and other goods suppliers are ensured of a market for their products and continue to earn an income despite the implementation of the community quarantine in the city which limited the mobility of the people and businesses.

The Kadiwa on Wheels started rolling out earlier this month to chosen barangays in the city that does not have easy access to the markets.

The DA in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Department Of Trade and Industry, and the City Gov-

ernment of Butuan, facilitates the conduct of the activity. Farmers Associations, cooperatives, individual farmers, distributors, or retailers of fresh and frozen and meat products, as well as the small and medium enterprise has been participating in the Kadiwa.

As of April 30, Kadiwa on Wheels has rolled out eight times already serving 13 barangays in Butuan City and has generated an accumulated sales of P694,406.14.

Larry Abuzo, Chairperson of Brgy. Agusan Peque-

ño, one of the communities visited by the Kadiwa on Wheels they really appreciate this program of the government. “Residents of our Barangay don’t need to go to the market or grocery store anymore since their needs were already brought here,” he said.

On the other hand, Nida De Castro Chen, a resident of Brgy. Pangabugan said that she is delighted with her Kadiwa on Wheels experience. “I was able to buy some fish at a low price. This is a very good program because now we

don’t have to go far to buy our basic needs, so there is less risk of being exposed to COVID19,” Chen said.

In addition to the Kadiwa on Wheels, the DA-Caraga’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) also conducts the Kadiwa Direct Selling at the DA Regional Office every 15th and 30th day of the month.

The Kadiwa on Wheels is one of the initiatives of the Department to help control the spread of the Coronavirus disease. (Vanessa P. Sanchez/DA13-RAFIS)

to the Enhanced Wastewater Management to combat COVID-19. A Rapid Response Team was also deployed to handle environment-related concerns in select quarantine checkpoints.

EMB X through the leadership of Regional Director Reynaldo S. Digamo launched project DASIG, a vernacular word which means hopeful, locally used to encourage the community amidst the health crisis brought by COVID-19.

The EMB X distributed on April 7 a total of 69 liters alcohol-based hand rubs to frontliners. Personnel of EMB X produced 24 liters utilizing refined glycerin

from Pilipinas Kao Inc. and 45 liters of ethyl alcohol requested from Tanduay Distillers Inc. Eleven sacks (50 kg) of rice were donated to 110 members of the Macajalar Wharf Porter’s Association, Multi-purpose Cooperative in Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City.

One hundred five food packs containing rice, noodles, canned goods and one whole dressed chicken were donated to the local government of Barangay Puntod, Cagayan de Oro City for distribution to identified Persons with Disability.

Barangay Captain Rexie A. Tinampay received the

food packs from EMB X. EMB X donated 1,872 food packs consisting of canned good and noodles.

A total of 1,155 kilos of rice with boxes of canned goods, noodles and 1,410 pieces of eggs were distributed to 231 garbage collectors of Cagayan de Oro City through the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Offices.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau, Region 10 under the leadership of Regional Director Efren B. Carido distributed 20 liters of disinfectant, coffee, biscuits and washable face masks to frontliners in the checkpoint in Taboc, Opol,

Misamis Oriental.

The J. R. Borja General Hospital in Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City was a recipient of the donation of MGB X consisting of 200 pieces of surgical masks and five liters of alcohol.

MGB X donated coffee and biscuit to frontliners at the checkpoint in Villanueva and Jasaan, Misamis Oriental.

As part of the implementation of the realigned Annual Social Development and Management Program (ASDMP), MGB X with Republic Cement Iligan, Inc. provided food packs to 100 indigents of Bonbonon, 87 in Kiwalan, Iligan City

and 50 indigents of Pagawan, Manticao, Misamis Oriental. The MGB X and Republic Cement Iligan, Inc. also provided Personal Protective Equipment and medicines to frontliners and Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs) in Iligan City checkpoints and Barangay Local Government Units.

Under the ASDMP, MGB X with Oro NQA Enterprises Corporation provided rice to 500 indigents of Sitio Santa Ana, Natumulan, Poblacion and Mohon in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. The MGB X with Epics Motors and General Merchandise

DA – Caraga’s Kadiwa on Wheels Farmers’ groups earn hits two birds with one stone P694-K from mobile market ops in Butuan

By ALEXANDER LOPEZ

BUTUAN CITY – Various farmers’ associations here have earned about PHP694,406 from the “Kadiwa on Wheels” initiative launched since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) lockdowns in March until April 30 this year.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) 13 (Caraga region) said the operations of mobile markets did not only benefit the farmers’ groups but also residents affected by the movement restrictions as part of the community quarantine to contain Covid-19.

“Through the Kadiwa mobile market, the consumers are given an opportunity to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and other fishery products, fresh and frozen meat and poultry products, as well as some dry goods, right at the premises of their barangays,” it said.

The DA-13 noted that farmers, fishers, and other suppliers of goods were

also assured of a market for their products and continued to earn income despite the implementation of the community quarantine in Butuan City, which limited the mobility of the people and businesses.

As of Tuesday, the agency said the “Kadiwa on Wheels” has already covered 13 barangays here.

Agusan Pequeño barangay captain Larry Abuzo said the “Kadiwa on Wheels” has been helpful to their residents who “no longer need to go out of the village to buy food and other basic needs.”

For Barangay Pangabugan resident Nida de Castro Chen, the cheaper prices at the mobile markets have been a godsend for her family.

“I was able to buy some fish at a low price. This is a very good program because now, we don’t have to go far to buy our basic needs, so there is less risk of being exposed to Covid-19,” Chen was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, DA-13 said it

DENR-EMB, MGB X donate goods, essential items to stakeholders IN support to the government’s effort to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Region X - Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) have donated relief goods and other essential items to frontliners and other stakeholders.

The Environmental Management Bureau X continues to enforce environmental laws particularly on Healthcare Waste Management.

The EMB X also deployed the Provincial Environmental Management Units to randomly validate reports of compliance of industries

See DONATE, page 8

MINDANAO DAILY TRUTH. JUSTICE. PROGRESS.

Editor: ALLAN M. MEDIANTE

Wed-Thu, May 6-7, 2020

BUSINESS 6

Globe myBusiness to hold special webinar for mompreneurs in time for Mother’s Day

PCSO approved Php122.654 Million medical assistance

By LEILA N. VALENCIA

MANDALUYONG CITY. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) approved various medical assistance in the total amount of Php122.654 million for 13,236 indigent Filipinos across the country for the month of April.

The approved medical assistance covers confinement, chemotherapy, dialy-

sis, hemophilia and postoperative medicines under the Medical Access Program (MAP) of the agency.

“Amid the COVID-19 virus threat, the charity agency is taking the necessary steps in order to continue providing medical assistance to the increasing number of indigents seeking help from PCSO, through its flagship Medical Access Program (MAP). Rest assured

that the Agency will find ways to meet the medical and health-related needs of all Filipinos especially the marginalized “ GM Garma said Of the Php122.654 million approved assistance, Php113,236,328.95 came from various PCSO offices nationwide for 12,445 patients while Php9,417,575.88 was approved for 791 patients thru the different

AMID challenging times brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, entrepreneurs try hard to remain optimistic and continue to operate even under the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ). Times are tougher, which makes it even more important to show support for and encourage fellow business owners.

Globe myBusiness is harnessing the power of technology for mompreneurs with Invite Calm, a free and interactive webinar in time for the upcoming Mother’s Day. Attendees can learn from noted femmepreneur and women transformologist® Rezza Custodio-Soriano who also founded Femme Power PH. Femme Power PH enables and transforms women through seminars, workshops, and coaching sessions. The pre-Mother’s Day webinar will discuss how mompreneurs can fight anxiety and juggle the demands of motherhood at home in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis.

“Each year, we host a special activity for female business owners to celebrate Mother’s Day. The quarantine will not stop us from supporting small

and medium enterprises, even if we have to shift our events to all-digital,” says Gaile Guevarra, Director of Regional Marketing Services at Globe myBusiness. “Many have been voicing out their restlessness so we aim for this to delight them and ease their anxiety about the coronavirus.”

“Mothers and femmepreneurs are already superheroes for dealing with so much on any given day.

Now, they have the extra challenge of balancing everything while coping with the effects of a global pandemic. Hopefully, our webinar will create a community where these wonderful women can have a little bit of their much desired me-time,” adds Guevarra.

Invite Calm is part of Globe’s commitment to being a reliable and trusted partner of SMEs in the country. The webinar will be held on May 8, 2020 at 4 PM- 5:30 PM. To join, visit bit.ly/3bPfQY2 or scan the QR code in the invitation above. Limited slots are available.

For more information on Invite Calm and other webinars and activities by Globe myBusiness, visit facebook. com/globemybusiness/.

hospitals with Malasakit Centers where PCSO is a partner.

From April 15-30, 2020, when PCSO resumed operations for its Medical Access Program (MAP), the National Capital Region (NCR) approved a total amount of Php 12,046,480.00 for 887 patients, Southern Tagalog and Bicol Region (STBR) allocated

See APPROVED, page 9

Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Regional Office No. 10 5F and 6F Trinidad Building, Corner Capistrano-Yacapin Streets, Cagayan de Oro City

NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT If you have any information / objection to the above-mentioned application(s), Please communicate with the Regional Director.

May 05, 2020 SGD. ATTY. JOFFREY M. SUYAO, CESO III Regional Director MDN: May 6, 2020

Local carriers gear up to resume commercial flight operations

By MA. CRISTINA ARAYATA

MANILA – Local carriers Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Cebu Pacific (CEB) on Tuesday announced their preparations as they anticipate resumption of flight operations, as well as the safety measures they would implement for the benefit of both the staff and the passengers.

All local carriers have temporarily suspended international and domestic flights until May 15, in line with the ongoing enhanced

community quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila and other select areas considered high risk for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In a statement CEB said it will cater to a limited number of domestic routes once flight operations resume.

Passengers may expect a “new normal”, or what CEB calls a “contactless flights”.

Candice Iyog, CEB vice president for Marketing and Customer Experience, said apart from encouraging passengers to check-in See RESUME, page 9

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DTI assists PPE producer UNISOL to reinvent its business AS demand dries up and non-essential establishments temporarily close amidst the COVID pandemic, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its financing arm the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.), opens a loan facility for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that decide to repurpose their production lines to cope up.

One business that availed of this DTI facility is Uniform Solutions (UNISOL), a start-up company for on demand uniforms based in Cebu.

With an initial loan of P3.0 million approved under DTI’s Small and Medium Enterprise - Personal Protective Equipment (SME-PPE) loan facility, UNISOL was able to retrofit its production operations to make washable face masks and reusable protective suits.

CEO Jonas Quilantang narrated how it took him five years to set-up operations and get ready for mass production, adopt technological innovations to improve existing products; have the machines, suppliers as well as the market ready.

“We wanted to make sure we can deliver the bulk orders expected of us and sustain our niche market,”Quilantang explained.

UNISOL was about ready to hold a grand company launch in early 2020 when a dire health situation developed in China.

Quilantang closely followed the news on the outbreak, had a hunch that the situation could worsen and knew a surge in demand for facemasks would follow.

He immediately made a strategic decision that changed the direction of his company.

“Before Luzon implemented its enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), I got the commitment from one of our suppliers for them to provide the needed fabric for the washable facemasks,” he said.

“We started making washable facemasks midMarch and reusable protective suits in early April this year,” Quilantang added.

Currently, UNISOL manufactures around 50,000 pieces of washable facemasks per day and 60,000 pieces of reusable protective suits a month.

UNISOL has reached the 1 million mark for facemasks as of April 29 this year.

After a month of production, Quilantang said that the company now has a stable supply of the products and is looking to widen its market by forging partnerships.

UNISOL is one good

THE Monetary Board approved prudential measures to assist the micro-, smalland medium enterprise (MSME) sector carry on with its business during the corona virus disease (COVID-19) crisis, as well as hasten recovery and sustainability of MSME operations in the post-crisis period.

The MSME sector is a vital component of the Philippine economy owing to its capacity to generate employment and contribute to economic activity across a wide range of industry sectors. Based on 2018 statistics,[1] MSMEs accounted for 99.5 percent of the total business establishments operating in the country and generated 5.7 million jobs, equivalent to 63.2 percent of the country’s total employment.

Moreover, the MSME sector contributed 35.7 percent in terms of value added and accounted for 25 percent of the total export revenue of the country.

The first set of measures by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) are amendments to the regulatory capital treatment of exposures to MSMEs, which free up capital and enable supervised financial institutions to extend more credit to the MSME sector.

These include the (a)

temporary reduction in the credit risk weights of loans granted to MSMEs that are current in status, and (b) assignment of a lower risk weight for MSME exposures that are covered by guarantees. a. Temporary reduction in the credit risk weight of MSME loans. The credit risk weight of loans granted to MSMEs that are in current status was reduced to 50 percent from 75 percent (for diversified MSME portfolio with at least 500 borrowers over a number of industries) and 100 percent (non-diversified MSME portfolio). The reduced credit risk weight is subject to review by the BSP by end-December 2021. b. Assignment of zero percent risk weight for MSME loans that are covered by guarantees. The BSP approved the assignment of a zero-percent risk weight not only to loans that are guaranteed by the Philippine Guarantee Corporation but also to loans that are guaranteed by the Agricultural Guarantee Fund Pool and the Agricultural Credit Policy Council. The revision in the credit risk weight complements programs of the National Government that support financing to MSMEs as well as small farmers and fisherfolk.

example of a company that effectively turned a negative situation into a good business opportunity, DTIRegional Operations Group Assistant Secretary Asteria Caberte said.

Despite the challenges, the company found a way to repurpose its production operation which was originally designed to manufacture T-shirts, polo shirts and jackets to produce personal protective equipment (PPE), and keep its workers

BSP Adopts Relief Measures in Support of the MSME Sector

To enable stand-alone thrift banks, rural banks and cooperative banks to continue to support their MSME- and rural community-based clients, the BSP deferred the implementation of the revised risk-based capital framework applicable to these banks under Circular No. 1079 dated 9 March 2020.

The revised capital adequacy framework will now take effect on 1 January 2023 instead of 1 January 2022. Moreover, the observation period of the revised framework will be extended from 31 December 2021 to 31 December 2022. The observation period provides these banks with enough time to meet the new minimum capital ratios through reasonable measures without disrupting their banking activities.

Lastly, the BSP lengthened the period of relief on the reporting of past due and non-performing loans of borrowers affected by the COVID-19 to 31 December 2021 from the original timeline of 8 March 2021 subject to reporting to the BSP. These policy issuances reinforce earlier pronouncements of the BSP which recognize MSME loans as See ADOPTS, page 9

employed, ASec. Caberte explained.

Like UNISOL, SMEs can also avail of the DTI loan facility by getting in touch with any of the DTI-Central Visayas provincial offices to signify their interest and to get an endorsement to the SB Corporation.

Micro enterprises with an asset size of not more than P3-million can borrow P10,000 to P200,000 while small enterprises with an asset size of not more than

P10 million can borrow a higher loan amount but not exceeding P500,000, she said.

Caberte encourages MSME business owners to contact any of the DTI Central Visayas Provincial Offices to signify their interest and to get an endorsement to SB Corporation: DTI Cebu Provincial Office: Tel No.: (032) 255-6971 Email: r07.cebu@dti.gov. ph

FB: https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Cebu/ DTI Bohol Provincial Office: Tel No.: (038) 501 8828 Email: r07.bohol@dti. gov.ph FB: https://www.facebook.com/DTI.BoholProvince/ DTI Negros Oriental Provincial Office: Tel.No. (035) 422 5509 Email: r07.negrosoriental@dti.gov.ph See ASSISTS, page 9

8

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LANDBANK offers ‘study now, pay later’ program for private schools THE Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) is launching a new lending program to boost the capacity of private academic institutions to implement a ‘study now, pay later’ scheme for its students.

Under the LANDBANK ACADEME (ACcess to Academic Development to Empower the Masses towards Endless Opportunities) Lending Program, LANDBANK has allotted a total program fund of P3billion in credit support for private high schools, private technical and vocational education training institutions, as well as Higher Education

Institutions (HEIs) such as colleges and universities, to provide continuing education to their students.

The program offers ‘33-3’ features with a P3billion-program fund in credit support, a very low fixed interest rate of only 3% per annum, and payable based on the maturity of the sub-promissory notes but not to exceed three (3) years. It forms part of LANDBANK’s social investment package to encourage students to pursue and finish their education.

The LANDBANK ACADEME Lending Program is open to private/non-DepEd

Junior/Senior High Schools with permit to operate by DepEd, as well as to private Technical-Vocational and Education Training (TVET) Institutions in partnership with and being regulated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Eligible borrowers of the newly launched LANDBANK ACADEME Lending Program also include Private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) such as Colleges and Universities with undergraduate programs authorized by Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

and the HEIs are accredited by either any of the following: Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities’ Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA), Association of Christian Schools, Colleges and Universities Accrediting Association Inc. (ACSCUAAI) or Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP).

“Given the financial constraints brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, LANDBANK is financing

ceived P5,000 each through the existing LANDBANK SURE Aid (Expanded Survival and Recovery Assistance Program for Rice Farmers) and RFFA (Rice Farmer Financial Assistance) Cash Cards.

LANDBANK is also preparing to release cash

grants to more rice farmers covering 34 provinces nationwide pending the list of additional beneficiaries from DA. Farmer-beneficiaries will claim the cash subsidy over-the-counter from designated LANDBANK Branches.

“We are in close coordination with the DA to supplement the income of our small rice farmers and their families the soonest possible time. This forms part of LANDBANK’s intensified support to the agriculture sector, which belongs to the most vulnerable sectors during this COVID-19 crisis,” said

LANDBANK President Cecilia C. Borromeo.

LANDBANK’s financial aid distribution is in support of the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) of the government for the implementation of Republic Act No. 11469 or the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.” For more up dates, please refer to the official LANDBANK social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram (@ landbankofficial) and on Twitter (@LBP_Official) or via the LANDBANK website (www.landbank. com).

of Technology who were stranded in Animas Bros.

Const. Corporation, Iligan City received relief goods and basic toiletress from HRDC and MGB X. The MGB X turnedover medicines, medical supplies and tools related to COVID-19 crisis control and mitigation for the community which targeted to cater 100 persons in Barangay Bunawan, Iligan City.

Food pack, mineral water, face masks and disinfectants for 290 persons were given to the frontliners and BHERT members manning

the checkpoints in Iligan City.

As of April 20, the MGB X with Animas Bros. Const.

Corporation provided relief goods to health workers of Barangay Dioyo, Sapang Dalaga, Misamis Occidental.

Through the ASDMP, selected households in Barangays Tambagan and Bulwa, Medina, Misamis Oriental received relief goods from MGB X and Integrated Sand and Gravel permit of Ferdinand H. Dularte. The MGB X with WHK Manufacturing and Trading Corporation provided relief goods

to selected households in Sitio Manlauyan, Gango, Bukidnon. Sacks of rice and disinfectant were also provided to the community and checkpoints through the Barangay Council of Barangay Gango, Libona, Bukidnon.

Seventy frontliners manning the checkpoint in Barangay Biga, Lugait, Misamis Oriental received sacks of rice, canned goods, face masks and hand sanitizers while the Barangay Council also received 10 sacks rice from MGB X. (With reports from EMB X and MGB X)

LANDBANK continues cash aid distribution to rice farmers amid COVID-19

THE Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) has paid out over P308 million to over 60,000 farmer-beneficiaries listed under the Department of Agriculture’s Financial Subsidy to Rice Farmers (FSRF) initiative.

LANDBANK said that as of April 22, a total of 61,564 rice farmers across 26 provinces have received financial assistance from this program. These farmers were largely affected by quarantine measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Small rice farmers tilling farms with an area of one hectare or less re-

Donate... from page 5

chandise provided food packs to 100 indigents in Barangay Villaflor, Oroquieta City.

Also under the ASDMP, MGB X with Holcim Resources and Development Corporation (HRDC) provided relief goods to residents of Barangays Calangahan, Lower Talacogon and Kaluknayan, Lugait, Misamis Oriental. Mining engineering students of Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute

Stay Healthy in this time of COVID-19

By MARILOU A. BALAGTAS TEACHER I CAMATING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

As the whole world suddenly changed due to COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people who were infected with the virus are going up each day. Keeping ourselves healthy is indeed important to boost our defenses against any illnesses. Here are some tips to stay healthy: Minimize physical contact and exposure We should stay at home at all times. If it is really necessary to go out, like buying our basic necessities such as food, water and other essentials, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing should not be neglected. It is also vital to wash

our hands, keep our home clean and disinfect all areas for this is our first line of defense.

Boost your immune system There are lots of things that we can do to boost our immune system. One of the basic way is to have a balanced diet. Food is medicine. We need to supply our body with what it needs to build our defenses against viruses and bacteria. We can eat different kinds of fruits and vegetables to acquire vitamins and minerals that our body needs. Also, we should avoid eating processed foods, for these contain chemicals and preservatives that may harm our body, specifically our gut health will be compromised.

Another important immune booster is water. Keeping ourselves

hydrated helps all organs of the body function well. Dehydration leads to poor circulation which results to improper distribution of minerals to the body.

Having enough time to rest also helps to boost our immune system. An average of 7-8 hours of sleep a day is recommended so that our body can detoxify itself and get rid of harmful invaders in our body. Hence it can reduce our chances of getting sick.

Keeping yourself active by having a regular exercise. Because we are on home quarantine, we have plenty of time to do yoga, Zumba or whatever kind of exercise that we can do. It’s fun and this has health benefits as well.

Maintaining a good mental health is also important while we

are staying in our homes. We should avoid being pessimistic or worrying too much about our situation. This might lead to stress, which can be a factor to weaken our immune system.

Keeping calm and staying positive can do so much to maintain our happiness and self-worth.

We can also choose to spend more quality time with our family, or can learn a new skill and hobby. Reading books also helps not to be so stuck about our situation and gain knowledge instead.

Taking care of ourselves during this turbulent time is one way to help stop the spread of the virus. By staying healthy and responsible, we can look forward to a COVID-free world!

interventions to ensure that students will be able to enroll in school when classes finally resume. The LANDBANK ACADEME Lending Program supports the education sector in providing students greater access to quality education amid the health crisis we are all facing,” LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo said.

The LANDBANK ACADEME Lending Program offers refinancing or rediscounting of promissory notes issued by the parents or benefactors of students for school loans. Eligible schools can borrow up to 70% of the sub-promissory notes on a per semester basis and subject further to a maximum amount based on the school’s net borrowing capacity.

The loan will be released either in lump sum or stag-

gered basis per semester, and will be directly credited to the deposit account maintained by the school with LANDBANK. The LANDBANK ACADEME Lending Program will be available until June 30, 2021.

For details about the program’s features and application requirements, interested borrowers may contact the nearest open L A N D BA N K L e n d i n g Center or Branch nationwide, or call LANDBANK’s customer service hotline at (02) 8-405-7000 or at PLDT Domestic Toll Free 1-800-10-405-7000.

Fo r m o r e u p d at e s , please refer to the official LANDBANK Facebook and Instagram accounts (@landbankofficial) and Twitter (@LBP_Official) or the LANDBANK website (www.landbank.com).

MisOr travel pass, padayong gilukat PADAYONG gidagsa ang kapitolyo sa tiglukat og travel pass human gipalugwayan ni Gov. Bambi Emano sa rekomendasyon sa mga mayores sa 23 ka lungsod ug duha ka dakbayan ang general community quarantine dinhi sa Misamis Oriental hangtud sa Mayo 15, 2020.

Hinuon, gisunod man sa tiglukat ang social distancing ug nagsuot sa face mask sa ilang paglinya sa Provincial Health Office kung hain makuha ang nasangpit nga travel pass.

Gibaliwala lang sa mga tiglukat sa travel pass ang kainit ug kahasol sa ilang paglinya sa buhatan sa PHO tungod kay nagpatigbabaw ang ilang dakung pagsabot sa hugot nga seguridad sa pamunuan ni Gov. Emano batok sa posibleng pagtakboy sa COVID-19.

Wala kay madunggan nga reklamo ug bagutbot, ang importante alang kanila, nga kung makakuha na sila sa travel pass, mahapsay na ang ilang pagbyahe sulod ug gawas sa dakbayan sa Cagayan de Oro padulong sa Misamis Oriental ug vice versa.

Ap a n d i l i t a n a n makakuha og travel pass, hilabina ang nag-edad 20 paubos ug 60 pataas, kinsa

pulos daling matakboyan sa makamatay nga virus, matud sa PHO. Pipila ka rekisitos nga angay dalhon sa paglukat sa travel pass ang barangay exit pass, company ID o certification nga sila nagtrabaho particular ana nga kampanya ayha sila tagaan sa priority number, dunay gamay interview ayha hatagan sa travel pass.

Alang niadtong maglukat sa travel pass nga gikan sa lugar nga adunay nagpositibo sa COVID-19 ug mosulod sa Misamis Oriental, kinahanglan magkuha sa certification gikan sa barangay nga nagpamatuod nga dili sila persons under monitoring (PUM) ug persons under investigation (PUI).

Tungod sa hugot nga pagpatuman sa seguridad batok COVID-19 dinhi sa Misamis Oriental, malipayong gipahibalo ni Provincial Health Officer Dr. Jerie Calingasan, kinsa chairman sa Provincial Task Force for COVID-19, nga “zero” kon wala pay natala nga nagpositibo sa COVID-19 dinhi sa lalawigan, bisan tuod gipalibotan na kini sa mga silingang probinsiya ug dakbayan nga nagtangag og pipila ka kaso sa killer virus.

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Assists... from page 7

FB: https://www.facebook. com/DTI7.NegrosOriental/ DTI Siquijor Provincial Office: Tel No.: (035) 480-9065 Email: r07.siquijor@dti. gov.ph FB: https://www.facebook. com/DTI7.Siquijor/ Borrowers may also contact SB Corporation’s Toll Free Hotline # 1-800-106513333 Email: p3@sbgfc.org.ph or sbcorporation@sbgfc. org.ph FB: https://www.facebook.com/PondoSaPagbabagoAtPagasenso/

Adopts... from page 7

alternative compliance with the reserve requirement as well as relax the Know-YourCustomer requirements for retail clients to facilitate their access to formal financing channels.

Overall, these measures are expected to channel liquidity directly to the MSME sector while ensuring the health and safety of the financial system.

Recession... from page 4

financially happy and loyal.

Ultimately he concluded that seen this situation people have realised that their best

protection is their home and their home is their best asset.

It was a really interesting round of presentations and stories and the conclusion of the webinar was that real estate remains resilient and a good investment. We may now look at property with new eyes considering the experience of the lockdown and the importance of the home environment.

Lorenz Ziller 01 May 2020

Approved... from page 6

Php21,562,835.93 for 2,442 indigent patients, Northern and Central Luzon (NCL) with Php31,744,092.00 for 3,591 beneficiaries, Php27,803,845.00 for 2,793 recipients in the Visayas Region and Php20,079,076.22 for Mindanao Region with 2,732 qualified individuals.

On the other hand, hospitals with Malasakit Centers nationwide assisted 791 indigent individuals with medical assistance in the total amount of Php9,417,575.88. Malasakit Center hospitals from NCL approved Php1,370,000.00 for 129 patients while STBR allocated Php 578,400.00 for 43 indigents. For hospitals with Malasakit Center in NCR, Php1,324,700.00 was approved for 46 clients, Visayas Region with Php4,379,371.68 for 362

Wed-Thu, May 6-7, 2020 qualified individuals and Mindanao Region with 211 patients with total assistance of Php1,765,104.20.

It can be recalled that on April 15, 2020, the agency resumed the processing of medical assistance amidst suspension of PCSO operations due to COVID-19 situation throughout the Philippines brought by Corona Virus, while the online services started on April 22 ,2020.

“We are physically distant today, but we must come together to fight this invisible corona virus so that tomorrow we can stand close to each other again, “ added by GM Garma.

PCSO Main Office and all PCSO Branch Offices nationwide are open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm only to accept and process request for medical assistance. In addition, patients from the National Capital Region (NCR) may also file their request through online application by accessing the PCSO official website www.pcso.gov.ph, go to EServices and click the NCR Online Application.

Physical distancing will quarantine passes can visit be observed in queues and the direct selling on designated dates to buy fresh boarding, she added.

As for the crew, they will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and will also have to undergo rapid antibody test.

By JUDESEL S. SAMEJON Both CEB and PAL would III/Teacher-in-Charge require passengers to wear Teacher Tipan Elementary School face masks all throughout Sinacaban District Division of Misamis Occidental the flights.

The two also noted the INTONATION or the thorough disinfection of pitch pattern of your voice is cabin, before and after important in spoken English flights. Both would make because it conveys meaning sanitizers available. in many ways. It is a feature Meanwhile, PAL spokes- of pronunciation. Changperson Cielo Villaluna said ing the pitch in your voice the resumption of com- allows you to show surprise mercial flight operations (“oh, really?”) or boredom would depend on the travel (“oh, really….”). The rising demand, the safety, as well tone is also used for showas the travel restrictions ing expectation. And it’s also used for showing interest and imposed by various govern- excitement. ments.

On the other hand, a low Since the implementation or falling tone is used for makof the ECQ, both PAL and ing a statement. Questions CEB have been mounting with who, what, when, why all-cargo flights to carry and how also use this falling essential medical supplies.

Further, PAL mounted several sweeper flights to ferry stranded nationals out of the country. (PNA)

The Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) is the fund that is being downloaded in the schools account with the purpose of payment of utilities that are being incurred in operating the school and spending it on activities and necessities that would benefit the learners, not only for the learners, but also to the teaching and non- teaching personnel working inside the school.

DepEd Order No. 13, s. 2016, Implementing Guidelines on the Direct Release of Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) Allocation of Schools statement 12.3, states that “Elementary, and Secondary schools without financial staff shall… submit to the SDO on or before the 5th day of the following month the original copy of the Cash Disbursement Register (CDR), the paid Disbursement Vouchers (DVs) and all supporting documents which shall serve as liquidation or

Earn... from page 5

it would continue its “Kadiwa Direct Selling” initiafrom page 6 tive, which is open every online, they will also hold 15th and 30th of the month their own boarding passes at the DA regional office for the staff to scan the grounds here. barcode.

Residents who hold

is a monthly activity of the schools. On time submission of liquidation report ensures efficient and effective utilization of the school’s MOOE. The delay in submission of liquidation will affect the school’s operation since it will result to a late download of cash advance in school’s account. Thus, it will affect the procurement of goods or payment of services and hampers the continuous development of the school because of lack of resources specifically, money.

Learning through the Screen: The New Norm?

By MARY JOY O. MAGHUYOP TEACHER I MAIKAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the whole world by 360 degrees. It affected for over 100 countries and killed thousands of lives leading us to chaos. It has a big impact to every sector of the society, including education. For instance, this year, the graduating students replaced their excitement into disappointment when it was announced that graduation ceremonies were cancelled. Of course, this is necessary to ensure the public health and safety.

We had never faced this situation before. Obviously, we’ve had localized interruptions of schools as a result of typhoons, war, volcanic eruptions and other natural calamities. Back then, the closest parallel to this pandemic would have been the Spanish flu in 1918. However, the time period is different because now, we have gone so far in all aspects, including in the field of technology. Learning can still go on even during quarantine by means of our computer screens.

What do we lose and what

do we learn when classrooms go virtual? One student can enroll into a virtual classroom via Zoom.

He can turn off his video during discussions and mute himself to avoid noise distractions. He can also do multitasking, like texting, playing games on the computer, going to the bathroom and other stuff- without letting others know.

Another challenge could be the educators or the teachers. When they are less equipped to navigate the internet and the particularities of managing a classroom mediated by a screen and microphone.

Some have technical difficulties, trouble with WiFi, or were simply panicked over the prospect of teaching the full class over the new platform. These similar situations are playing out in virtual offices and classrooms across the world.

While the initial shift online has created a flurry of chaos, there are benefits to a virtual classroom.

Students can continue participating in discussion sections and lectures while avoiding the anxiety of using public transit or being stuck in the traffic. They can “sit in” on a virtual class while having colds or allergies, which can make them a target of serious threats or bullies from fellow students on a regular class. You can even

avoid waiting for your turn while going to the restrooms.

However, the reality is that some subjects are much harder to transfer online. Theories and scientific lectures are easier to teach virtually than a music or dance class. Even in creative writing workshop, responding to a classmate’s sorrow about her mother’s death is hard to do without looking her in the eye. The screen creates an emotional remove that makes it difficult to have back-and-forth dialogue between multiple people, and it’s almost impossible to provide thoughtful feedback without feeling like you’re speaking into a void.

The benefits are the same: classes can be taken anywhere, lack of commute offers more time for studying or external commitments, and the structure is more welcoming to students. And yet, online learning hasn’t threatened the traditional model of in-person learning.

Virtual learning calls for our own accountability. Online classes require significantly more motivation and attention. It may be difficult to focus on a pixelated video screen when browsing the internet on the computer, text on the phone, watch TV in the

tone. But a rising tone is used for yes/no questions. Finally, a fall-rising tone expresses uncertainly.

Intonation is very important in communication as it gives information beyond just the basic meaning of the words. It can express the speaker’s attitude or feeling about something. Even within a question, intonation can indicate if the speaker is confirming information or seeking additional information.

Intonation is like a tune or melody in the voice used to express different shades of meaning. Intonation patterns are the ways speakers adjust the pitch of their voice in order to convey something.

Educational Management as a Career

Resume...

replenishment of the cash advance granted. Subsequent cash advances shall be granted only upon the receipt of the Cash Disbursement Register (CDR) equivalent to at least 75% of the previous cash advance...” Moreover, statement 12.4 states that “disburse funds in accordance with the existing budgeting, accounting, procurement, and auditing rules and regulations.”

Fast-tracking of submission of the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) liquidation report

fruits, vegetables, fish, and other basic needs, the DA13 said. (PNA)

The importance of intonation and pronunciation in reading

Importance Of Fast-tracking Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) Liquidation Report

By DEXTER J. PALASOL Admin Assistant II

9

background or just lay comfortably in bed. The problem, too, is that webinar technology doesn’t quite live up to the hype.

Noise and feedback—rustling papers, dogs barking, kettles, wind—make it impossible to hear people talk, and so everyone is asked to mute their microphones.

The COVID-19 pandemic will likely continue presenting challenges beyond those that come up in the course of routine virtual education. Even if this viral spread subsides, or a vaccination becomes readily available, the shift from online classes back to in-person learning may create disruptions of its own—adjusting back to higher standards of accountability, weaning off of phone-checking habits, and transferring comments back to hard copies instead of digital notes. Hopefully, these phases of trouble shooting can provide teachers and students the opportunity to practice adaptability, patience and resilience. And hopefully, these experiences will serve as preparation for future challenges that come with the next epidemic, pandemic and other disaster.

By HONEYMAE L. CAÑETE School Principal I Sugod Elementary School District of Sultan Naga Dimaporo Division of Lanao del Norte

EDUCATIONAL management is the aim of any Education student who wants to become a public school teacher. From an entry-level Teacher I, a public school teacher ultimately aims to become a school-in-charge, then levels up to become an education specialist. From there, his or her career goes upward. That is why educational management is defined as both a field of academic study and a collective group of professionals that includes principals, teachers and other education professionals.

Sometimes known as educational administration, educational management is commonly associated with elementary and secondary schools as well as institutes of higher learning like colleges and universities. They can also be found in government agencies, private companies and even non-government organizations. They will ultimately become policy makers, researchers and consultants to help evaluate and develop ways in enriching the educational

system in the country, the K to 12 curriculum notwithstanding. To do that, they may either proceed with a master’s degree or take up a CESO exam.

Teaching professionals who are aiming to go up the career ladder must mind their performance. They must make sure that the schools that they are in charge are populated with students who are academically excellent.

In an effort to ensure all students receive the best education, it would seem beneficial for educator programs to spend more time and effort in ensuring educators and instructors are well versed in classroom management.

Teachers do not focus on learning classroom management because higher education programs do not put an emphasis on the teacher attaining classroom management. Indeed, the focus is on creative a conducive learning atmosphere for the student.

Classroom management is closely linked to issues of motivation, discipline and respect.

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Wed-Thu, May 6-7, 2020

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SM builds seven emergency quarantine facilities in Metro Manila SM, through SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), recently constructed seven (7) insulated emergency quarantine facilities (EQFs) in Pasay and Quezon City to house and treat patients affected by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Built by the SM Engineering Design and Development (SM EDD) team, and WTA Architecture and Design Studio, these include four facilities in Camp Crame and two facilities at the AFP Health Service Command – V. Luna in Quezon City; as well as one at the Air Force General Hospital – Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Completed within a span of six to ten days, these feature a total of 156 beds, air conditioning units, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, restrooms,

shower areas, and nurse lounges. The EQFs are set to accommodate COVID-19 patients who are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms.

In the Camp Crame EQFs, each bed has a built-in call system and patients will have an access to Wi-Fi connectivity.

PNP chief Gen. Archie Gamb o a t han ke d SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans ‘Chico’ Sy Jr. and WTA Architecture and Designs for their contributions to the facility.

Apart from contributing to the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, this social initiative also served as a platform for volunteeriSM for SM employees, especially those from SM EDD. Through the EQF project, SM EDD employees were able to volunteer

The interior of one of the Camp Crame facilities, which like the rest features beds, airconditioning units, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, restrooms, shower areas, and nurse lounges.

their time and expertise in constructing the insulated EQFs, an initiative that has received encouragement and strong support from the President of SM EDD, Hans ‘Chico’ Sy Jr. SM F I’s L e a d e rsh ip Team expressed gratitude to SM EDD volunteers for carrying out its purpose

and commitment to provide EQFs to its partners in the uniformed service.

“We have courageous employee volunteers from SM EDD, sharing their expertise and time amidst COVID-19. We’re proud to support their contribution during this time of incredible need,” the team added.

SM Foundation also thanked its partners, the Air Force General Hospital, AFP Health Service Command and the WTA Architecture and Design Studio, as “saving lives is critical during this pandemic.”

The building of insulated EQFs is one of SM’s initiatives in line with its commitment to be of service to the Filipino public, its hospitals, and government during the coronavirus pandemic.

Earlier, SM, through SM Foundation donated over PHP170 million worth of personal protective equipment, testing kits, and intensive care unit (ICU-grade) ventilators to over 100 hospitals and medical institutions.

Each bed in the Camp Crame EQFs has a built-in call system and patients will have access to Wi-Fi connectivity.

SM EDD and WTA Architecture and Design Studio built four facilities in Camp Crame in Quezon City.

One of two EQF built at the AFP Health Service Command - V. Luna in Quezon City.

The EQF at the Air Force General Hospital at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

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Flight... from page 12

the airport terminal and for the duration of the flight.

All CEB aircraft will undergo extensive daily disinfection, which includes the misting of the cabin using a disinfectant approved for Airbus jets that is effective in eradicating viruses including the Novel Coronavirus. This process is aligned with International Air Transport Association guidelines, and ensures that all surfaces (such as passenger seats, overhead bins and cargo compartments) are covered and sanitized.

On top of thorough cleaning before and after operations for the day, all surfaces inside the lavatories--from the walls, sink, mirror, knobs, toilet bowl and floors will be cleaned and disinfected in between flights. All lavatories will also be sanitized every 30 minutes during a flight.

CEB’s fleet of Airbus jets are also equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Arrestor (HEPA) filters that are capable of filtering microscopic bacteria and virus clusters, including the Novel CoronaVirus with 99.99% efficiency, similar to what is used in hospital operating rooms.

“We hope for our passengers’ understanding as we implement new measures for our restart. Please rest assured that we will continue to review these processes and continue to deliver the warm, friendly service Cebu Pacific is known for,” Iyog added.

CEB is planning to restart commercial operations after almost two months of temporary suspension. The carrier may initially restart with a limited number of domestic flights.

Services... from page 3

The rest of the care packages will be distributed to the frontline staff of quarantine facilities of the National Task Force.

The company also donated 210 blankets to Paco Catholic School which serves as a temporary shelter for over 200 people. This includes street dwellers and stay-in volunteers and staff.

PLDT also gave financial assistance to the school to procure some immediate needs such as medicines and food supplies.

Moreover, PLDT is supporting the Kaagapay: Protect our Healthcare Heroes

project. This is a fundraising initiative that provides lifesaving medical equipment which includes PPEs, test kits and ventilators for the healthcare sector. This is spearheaded by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, Zuellig Pharma, ABS-CBN, Metro Drug and Go Negosyo.

To know more about the efforts of the PLDT Group in beating the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit https:// beta.pldt.com/covid19/.

Screen... from page 1

to a beneficiary; the latter will definitely get it. The barangay official will be held liable because he or she did not screen the beneficiary’s profile carefully) Even with these incidents, the secretary noted that there are a great number of honest beneficiaries who returned the cash assistance to DSWD. When it comes to duplicates, Bautista said, “Kung sakali naman na talagang na-duplicate, maaaring hindi na sila mabigyan sa pangalawang buwan (If there is really a duplication, there is a possibility that the beneficiary will not be able to receive the assistance for the second month).”

As for the Listahanan 2, Bautista said LGUs should only use it as a reference when they choose their beneficiaries. The DSWD has already given the authority to the LGUs in validating the names listed as the latter have the means to know whether or not the ones listed are still qualified or alive.

In Region 10, Charmaine Tadlas of DSWD-10 said the 2015 database may be outdated but a certain household or family with low income can make an appeal to have their names endorsed to CSWD or MSWD for validation. Once validated for SAP, DSWD will provide an emergency subsidy but such is still subject to the availability of funds.

“Kunin lang ang listahan ng umaapela at i-consolidate ito at ibigay sa DSWD field office (LGUs should just get the list of those who made an appeal, consolidate the data, and forward the list to DSWD field office),” Bautista added.

As of May 5, a total of 68,607 families have already been served by 58 LGUs, disbursing a total of P411 million in Region 10. (RTP/ PIA10)

Wed-Thu, May 6-7, 2020

Face... from page 1

will be facing administrative and/or criminal cases nga ipasaka nato kontra sa ilaha,” DILG-10 Regional Director Arnel Agabe said during the NorMin COVID-19 Response Task Force Press Conference, May 5.

(If we learn that there is truth on the complaints on choosing unqualified SAP beneficiaries of barangay or local officials, they will be facing administrative and/or criminal cases that we will file against them) Agabe further said an instruction was already given by DILG Sec. Eduardo Año to refer either to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) or to the Philippine National Police (PNP) any issue on irregularities, anomalies in the SAP distribution.

Such incidents will not be tolerated and sanctions will be given to corrupt officials even during the coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic.

DILG-10 will look into and pursue administrative cases against corrupt local officials that may lead to their suspension and dismissal from public office.

The President has also offered a P30,000 reward to any person who will give information that will lead to the arrest of these corrupt local officials. (RTP/PIA10)

Reminds... from page 1

condoms--to couples.

“These additional tasks for our barangay population volunteers will soon be piloted in the towns of Villanueva, Claveria, and Balingasag all in Misamis Oriental,” explained Mr. Gupit.

“On the posivite side, ECQ can be a rare opportunity for the couple to spend time together, and strenthen their relationshiop as husband and wife,” he said.

He said that with parents at home at this time of health crisis can help prevent teenage pregnancy.

He said young girls aged 10-14 had the highest in terms of teenage pregnancy.

“Based on unpublished survey, we found out that teenage pregancies occur during the end of each school year,” he said.

He said that between January-June there are 568 teenage deliveries or 24 deliveries a day among young girls. “This is very alarming

considering their young age,” said Mr. Gupit.

Earlier, Cagayan de Oro Councilor Jocelyn Rodriguez filed a proposed ordinance preventing teenage pregnancy and institutionalizing social protection for teenage parents.

The ordinance, said Rodriguez is in line with the policy of the city to promote and strengthen the role of teenagers, adolescents and young people in the over-all human and socioeconomic development of the city by protecting their human rights and dignity, and enable sustaining spaces for them to achieve their aspirations and potentials thereby liberating them from social inequalities, prejudices, the lack of education and poverty.

The proposed law provides the establishment and operation of service delivery network, which will provide quality health services to adolescents and youth who are currently pregnant; provide quality health and counseling services and ensure early referral, said the local official in a press statement.

It will also involve the conduct of school based and community-based activities, peer education, among others, the statement said.

It said the establishment of Teen Health Quarters and development of a local Cagayan de Oro Comprehensive Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Strategy and Operational Plan as well as interventions for effective information and education are also provided in the proposed law.

Pursuant to this, Rodriguez said that a Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Council shall be created composed of the city mayor as the chair; city health officer as co-chair. She said that members will include the chair of the City Council committees on health, and on youth; representatives of the City Health Office, City Social Welfare and Development Department, civil society organizations, and other groups. The council will be tasked to spearhead the formulation and implementation of the Cagayan de Oro Comprehensive Teenage Pregnancy Preventive Strategy and Operational Plan, among others. (With report from SP)

Rapid response is nonnegotiable Timely reporting of quality data is a prerequisite for rapid public health response. Currently, the capacity of health authorities to respond to the data generated by the surveillance activities is limited.

That means that the government needs to scale up the capacity to rapidly isolate newly identified cases, conduct contact tracing, and quarantine contacts.

Improved capacity will be most effective if coordinated with different reporting facilities in the primary care centers, public and private hospitals, airports, and seaports, and supported by timely and harmonized electronic data sharing.

Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Australia were able to ramp up very rapid outbreak control at the early stage of the pandemic because of their intensive surveillance at their borders and strict monitoring of all incoming passengers who were put into mandatory quarantine.

This was clearly a gap in our country when the system failed to catch all incoming travelers and monitor their movement. Unfortunately, health workers had to fully rely on patients’ disclosure of travel history and exposure.

According to the 2018 Philippine Health System Review, coordination among hospitals, local governments, and the Bureau of Quarantine continues to be a challenge in ensuring timely detection and management of outbreaks. Our weak disease surveillance has been a problem for a very long time due to a lack of funding, understaffed facilities, and insufficient access to working communication equipment.

And it would even be more disastrous when the pandemic hit the country during typhoon season. This is an opportunity to review the new surveillance lawRepublic Act No. 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Concern Act – that was signed in 2019 and to make sure that all surveillance gaps are addressed and clear actions are thoroughly outlined.

Another key gap is limited laboratory capacity in other regions outside of Metro Manila. For instance, from page 4 all test samples from all such as detention, mental over Mindanao are being health facilities, and slums. processed at the Southern

Disease...

11

Philippine Medical Center in Davao city, the lone satellite laboratory for six regions. A similar problem was noted in the Visayas and some parts of Luzon. As a result, real-time reporting has been a huge limitation. Satellite laboratories must be strategically located across the country to prevent delayed case-based intervention.

To prevent burdening health care facilities and any potential contagion risks, increasing the capacity to treat new cases effectively at home or in local isolation facilities is a priority.

The ability of the patient to obser ve strict home quarantine must be taken into account. It would be impractical in our context given the country’s multigenerational household.

Thus, the government’s response to expanding quarantine facilities has been a welcome development.

Outbreak drill One strategy to test the community’s preparedness to any epidemic is through an “outbreak drill” or a series of simulated activities akin to disaster drill regularly done in the country. This can be integrated into the existing national disaster framework. On the national level, the overarching elements are border protection and internal control. On the community level, this would serve as an opportunity to determine the necessary mechanisms and processes during the outbreak. The parameters must include a lockdown scenario, referral network, isolation facilities, communication, equipment, and the number of key personnel or frontline workers.

The drill would allow the community to assess and strengthen its preparedness and response for a pandemic.

Moving forward It’s already known that pandemics are a threat to our country’s security, our economy, and our well-being as a society. It is a clear reminder to address them seriously and to recognize that the current national health system is ill-equipped, and major health reforms have to be instituted.

Let’s bring these lessons along as we prepare for a new normal.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that the intestate estate of the late ANECITO VENZUELA, who died on August 26,2012,at Camiguin Gen.Hospital Mambajao,Camiguin leaving without will and Testament left a Real Property identified as denominated Cadastral Lot No.31-A9-J-2, covered under Tax Declaration No.18100,with an area of 120 Square Meters,located at BolokBolok,Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin is the subject of Extra-judicial Settlement of Estate with Deed of Absolute Sale, sold in favor of the Spouses MARCELINO B.CIMACIO and GESILA P.CIMACIO, Filpino Citizens of legal ages and a residence of Camp. Gen. Bonifacio Aranas, Mambajao, Camiguin (reffered as Vendees), executed by the Heirs of the said late ANECITO VENZUELA (Reffered as the Vendors).

Under the Notarial Registry of Atty.

HUMPHREY JEFFREY O. ROXAS, Per Doc. No.479; Pge No.96; Book No.XXXV; SEREIS of 2013.

MDN: May 6, 13 & 20, 2020

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Wed-Thu, May 6-7, 2020

CEB intensifies sanitation protocols for flight restart Rolls out new Contactless Flights guidelines

LEADING Philippine carrier Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) plans to implement new sanitation protocols and intensified preventive measures, as it prepares for the resumption of commercial passenger operations, following quarantine restrictions caused by the Coronavirus Disease (COVID 19).

All pilots and cabin crew will undergo rapid antibody tests before they are assigned to operate flights.

All operating crew will don Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while on duty.

All ground staff are likewise required to don PPEs while on duty. Cleaning and disinfection procedures have been ramped-up for all

Cebu Pacific personnel disinfect all surfaces inside the aircraft, including passenger seats and tray tables.

“We are implementing additional procedures to assure our passengers and give them the confidence to travel again. Rolling out ‘contactless flights’ will minimize face-to-face contact between our ground staff and our passengers and observe physical distancing,” said Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Customer Experience at Cebu Pacific.

CEB urges all passengers to check-in for flights online. They will also be required to hold their own boarding passes with the barcode facing the staff for scanning. Queues and boarding procedures will be managed according to physical distancing guidelines. All passengers will also be required to wear Passengers on a sweeper flight from Davao observe face masks upon entry at CEB facilities and equipment such as self check-in kiosks, check-in and bag drop counters and shuttle buses. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers will be provided for all passengers and staff at the airport and inside the aircraft.

physical distancing while in line at the Davao International Airport.

See FLIGHT, page 11